COMSUBIN celebrates the gathering of the National Association of Naval Assault Commandos

At the Command of the Submarine and Assault Operators Group, the biennial gathering of the National Association of Naval Assault Operators (ANAIM) took place, an event that brought together operators of the specialty from different generations. The meeting represented a moment of significant cohesion, in which personal paths and collective history intertwined once again, renewing a bond that the passage of time does not wear away.

For those who have concluded their service, the return to COMSUBIN entails reliving a season fundamental to the formation of character and approach to life. For personnel currently in service, the occasion offered the opportunity to meet men who have traveled the same path in different eras, recognizing in their experiences the foundations of their own commitment. The encounter between different generations constituted the authentic heart of the gathering: feeling part of a common history and continuing to care for such a legacy.

Tribute to the fallen and inauguration of commemorations

A central moment of the day was dedicated to the memory of the fallen. The event included the laying of a wreath at the monument dedicated to the fallen of the assault vessels and the inauguration of a commemorative plaque dedicated to the fallen of the three Royal Submarines Gondar, Iride and Scirè, which during the second world conflict provided a crucial contribution to the operations of the Assault Vessels. On a day dedicated to the gathering, this remembrance underscored how the history of the specialty is composed of lives, choices, and sacrifices.

Authorities and guests of the gathering

The event, presided over by the Commander of COMSUBIN Rear Admiral Stefano Frumento, saw the celebration of a Holy Mass officiated by Monsignor Antonio Vigo. Participating were the President of ANAIM Assault Operator Gaetano Zirpoli and most of the members, the Commander of Submarines of the Navy (MARICOSOM) Rear Admiral Francesco Milazzo, and a delegation of the National Submarine Component of ANMI led by their president Admiral in Reserve Giovanni Gumiero, accompanied by some submarines personnel in service.

The participation of these representatives further increased the significance of ANAIM's initiative, aimed at completing the memorial area at the Madonnina with the names of those who fell in the crews of the three submarines. Also notable was the presence of the dean of the Assault Operators Gianfranco Pianigiani, class of 1933 from the fourth Assault Operators course of 1954, the son of Eugenio Wolk founder of the "Gamma", as well as a direct heir of Sergeant Marconi Operator Romolo Lodati who fell aboard the Scirè. The event also saw the participation of Members of Parliament Paola Maria Chiesa and Maria Grazia Frijia, honorary members of ANAIM, and the Vice-Mayor of the Municipality of Portovenere Emilio Di Pelino.

The Legacy That Continues

The gathering confirmed its fundamental value: honoring those no longer present, expressing gratitude to those who traced the path, renewing closeness to those currently carrying on the service. The sense of belonging built through such profound experiences remains intact as years pass and personal paths change. You carry it with you, recognize it in others, renew it every time you return to the places that generated it. The Incursori remain such forever.